Transmission modes are a classification of LCD operation based on how light is used to render the image. The three main modes are:
- transmissive – using only the backlight; ideal for indoor and low-light environments,
- reflective – using only ambient light reflected from a mirror-like rear surface; ideal for bright sunlight but unusable in the dark,
- transflective – a hybrid mode combining reflection and transmission for visibility in both bright and dark conditions.
The choice of transmission mode is essential for designing devices tailored to specific operating environments, from indoor consumer products to outdoor industrial or military equipment.
